cold hawaii
The name says it all: perfect waves, some of the best wind statistics in Northern Europe, more rainbows than you can count, and instead of palm trees, fishing boats dotting the beaches. Add to that an incredible light that lingers almost around the clock, especially during the summer months.
Welcome to the west coast of Denmark. Stretching over 50 kilometers of coastline from Agger in the south to the harbor town of Hanstholm in the north, this area has rightfully earned its name, Cold Hawaii, in recent years. It’s a unique blend of laid-back surf vibes and rugged Nordic culture, set in the untamed nature of Denmark's first national park.
For more than 30 years, it’s been my favorite spot—and now it’s also my new home.
Spots
Vorupør:
Best Wind Direction: Southwest to West
A long pier tames the North Sea here, and the offshore sandbanks create clean, long, and slightly more powerful waves compared to those found in Hanstholm.
Klitmøller:
Best Wind Direction: Southwest to West-Northwest
When the waves are smaller, this spot tends to have more swell than Hanstholm. However, since there’s no pier to organize the incoming swell, the conditions are usually a bit choppier compared to Vorupør or Hanstholm.
Hanstholm:
Best Wind Direction: West to Northwest
The launch over the stones in the lee of the pier can be a bit tricky, but once you’re out, clean, long, and slightly rounder waves await—perfect for stringing together turn after turn, provided you have the right foil under your board.
Flat Water Spots:
A quick glance at the map is enough to see that just 15 minutes from the coast, you'll find perfect flatwater spots for every wind direction. These locations offer an ideal opportunity to ease into downwind foiling without venturing straight onto the open sea.
I'll be happy to show you where the fjords provide quick access to deep enough water for foiling, short paths to the launch points, and even a warm place to change.
Wetsuit Guide
April/May:
A 6/5mm wetsuit with a hood or a 5/4mm wetsuit. Gloves can be a good idea until mid-May, and 5mm neoprene boots are essential.
June–September:
A 4/3mm wetsuit, or a 3/2mm for the warmest days. Boots are always a good idea, especially in Hanstholm, due to the challenging entry and exit conditions.
October–December:
A 6/5mm wetsuit with a hood or a 5/4mm wetsuit. Gloves are also necessary, but 3mm thickness is sufficient. Neoprene boots should be 5mm.
